Three of Scotland’s most promising young politicians have pledged to make South Ayrshire proud after being selected for new high profile positions at the Scottish Youth Parliament (SYP). Among the promotions, one of the teenagers has also been selected to represent the views of young people at the UK Youth Parliament (UKYP).
At a recent meeting of the SYP in Stornoway, Kirsty McCahill (18) was elected onto the SYP Board of Trustees, Codie Hodge (17) was elected as Convener for Social Justice, while Kai Green (17) was elected onto the UK Youth Parliament to represent South Scotland. Kirsty McCahill’s been an MSYP for three years and said she would be working hard to make a difference, “It's a privilege to be able to represent the views of young people in my constituency and give them fair representation. In my new role I'm looking forward to making sure the SYP is the best organisation for its members and that we continue to engage with young people from all walks of life.” Codie Hodge is also looking forward to the new challenge, she he said, “The SYP may just be the best thing to happen to me and I know for certain the experience has changed me for the better. There’s no better feeling than being an elected representative, which means others have put their trust in you. Being a convenor will bring new challenges but I’m looking forward to it.” Kai Green’s excited about joining the UK Youth Parliament, he said: “I am honoured that I was elected to represent the South of Scotland. I am looking forward to November, when I will be debating in the House of Commons and doing everything possible to champion the views of young people both locally and nationally. Councillor John Hampton, Youth Champion for South Ayrshire Council said: “I’m pleased to see all the hard work that Kirsty, Codie and Kai, are putting in has been rewarded with new responsibilities. It’s important that young people living in South Ayrshire feel engaged and have the opportunity to get involved in decisions which affect them and our three representatives are making sure this happens. I wish them all the very best in their new positions.” The SYP is a voice for Scotland's young people. Elections are held every two years and young people from all across Scotland stand as candidates. The MSYPs range in age from 14 to 25 and represent constituencies in all 32 local authorities throughout Scotland The democratically elected members listen to and recognise the issues that are most important to young people, ensuring their voices are heard by decision-makers.